Duke University is committed to excellence in athletics as part of a larger commitment to excellence and education.

The guiding principle behind Duke’s participation in Division I athletics is our belief in its educational value for our students. Intercollegiate athletics promotes character traits of high value to personal development and success in later life. These include the drive to take one’s talents to the highest level of performance; embracing the discipline needed to reach high standards; learning to work with others as a team in pursuit of a common goal; and adherence to codes of fairness and respect. Athletics also plays an important role in creating a sense of community in the University.

Duke’s mission defines expectations both on the field and off. In the name of excellence, Duke aims for a level of athletic performance that will frequently produce winning seasons and the realistic opportunity to compete for team or individual championships. Our mission also requires that Duke athletes be students first, that they be admitted with careful attention to their academic record and motivation, that they benefit from Duke’s educational programs and make satisfactory progress toward a degree, and that their attrition and graduation rates be comparable to those of other students.

Duke is also committed to the physical and emotional well-being of student-athletes and to the social development of the whole person. We recognize that great demands are placed on students who participate in intercollegiate athletics, and we are committed to providing support to help them manage these demands and get the most out of their Duke experience. Athletes are also expected to adhere to a level of conduct that brings credit to themselves and the University and uphold the values of citizenship and service.

Duke’s intercollegiate program shall be composed of nationally or regionally recognized sports that meet the needs, interests, and abilities of male and female students; that provide adequate institutional collateral benefits; that reflect due regard for the athletic traditions of Duke University and the Atlantic Coast Conference; and that fall within the financial capabilities of Duke University to fund at adequate levels.

In view of the health and educational value of athletics, in addition to varsity programs, Duke will create rich opportunities for participation in club sports, intramurals, and individual exercise and recreation.

The mission of the athletics program ultimately is that of Duke itself: “to engage the mind, to elevate the spirit, and stimulate the best effort of all who are associated with the University.”